Luke Kanine is passionate about his community and students at E.F. Rittmueller Middle School where he teaches Spanish and physical education to students from sixth through eighth grade and works as a part-time behavior interventionist at the school. With an emphasis on social-emotional learning and a tailored, personal approach to education, Kanine ensures that his students challenge themselves and have the tools to achieve their potential. In P.E., Kanine encourages students to work toward personal records instead of competing, creating an environment where every child feels supported. He educates students on the importance of reading and understanding food packaging labels, equipping them with the knowledge and autonomy to make nutritious, responsible choices when fueling their bodies. Also, as a Spanish teacher, Kanine infuses innovation and fun into his lessons, encouraging students to increase their language skills while building confidence. They use mini white boards to monitor progress and participate in schoolwide holiday caroling, performing standard holiday songs in Spanish for their peers and school staff.
Kanine’s empathetic and solution-oriented personality suits him in his role as a behavior interventionist. He helped create discipline policy and social-emotional-learning curriculum, works with students on behavioral improvement, and monitors grade checks. He stays up-to -date on the latest developments in restorative practices and discipline, attending conferences and presenting at professional development meetings. Also committed to supporting his colleagues, Kanine mentors teachers and initiated a wellness challenge that encouraged colleagues to take walks together, track their water intake, and work in teams to better themselves both physically and mentally.
Outside the classroom, Kanine is a dynamic leader who actively contributes to the school’s success in multiple ways. He runs the concession stand at athletic events, using the funds raised to support the purchase of P.E. equipment. In addition, he created and launched parents’ night out, where students can bond with friends, enjoy pizza, play video games and explore P.E. equipment—all while raising money for the school’s P.E. programs. Kanine is also a sports coach, coordinates the school’s field day, and co-advises honors night – a special event held at the end of the year that celebrates the achievements of eighth grade students.
Kanine earned his Bachelor of Arts in secondary education from Alma College in 2013 and his Master of Education in educational leadership and administration from Grand Canyon University in 2022.
Press Release: Surprise! Frankenmuth Teacher Receives $25,000 Milken Educator Award
